We just purchased a brand new Cannondale Tandem R3 for $1750 out the door. I am very impressed with this bike. For the price I think that the component level is very adequate. I'm used to riding higher end road bikes and I'm impressed with the build. It is definitely more along the touring feel for us, but that is exactly what we are going to do on it. At 35 lbs. out of the box I think that the weight is very respectable. I've got a full suspension mountain bike that weighs almost that much.
I know that it is a few hundred more than you were looking to spend, but for a brand new tandem at that price I think you should look into it.
Ben